What was Malta in the Bible?
Paul’s Shipwreck on Malta
Malta, mentioned in the Bible in Acts 28:1, is a significant location in the early spread of Christianity. After surviving a shipwreck, Paul and the other prisoners were welcomed by the people of Malta with unusual kindness. The island of Malta is located in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily. In the King James Version (KJV), Malta is referred to as Melita, which is the Greek word Μελίτη (Melitē).
The Journey and Shipwreck
Paul’s journey to Rome was fraught with peril. In Acts 27, we read about the harrowing voyage where Paul, as a prisoner, was being transported to Rome. The ship encountered a severe storm, and despite Paul’s warnings, the crew was forced to abandon the ship when it ran aground on the island of Malta. Acts 27:41-44 describes the shipwreck and how everyone on board made it safely to shore, as Paul had assured them through God’s revelation.
The Welcome on Malta
Upon reaching Malta, the shipwrecked passengers experienced the unusual kindness of the Maltese people. Acts 28:1-2 states, “Once safely on shore, we found out that the island was called Malta. The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold.” This hospitality was a profound demonstration of God’s providence and care.
Paul’s Ministry on Malta
During his time on Malta, Paul continued his ministry. Acts 28:3-6 recounts how Paul, while gathering firewood, was bitten by a viper. The islanders expected him to swell up and die, but when Paul suffered no ill effects, they changed their minds and said he was a god. Paul also healed the father of Publius, the chief official of the island, who was suffering from fever and dysentery. This led to others on the island bringing their sick to Paul for healing (Acts 28:7-9).
Departure from Malta
After three months, Paul and his companions set sail again, this time in a ship that had wintered on the island. They were provided with everything they needed for their journey by the grateful Maltese people (Acts 28:10-11).
Lessons for the Modern Christian
God’s Sovereignty in Adversity
The account of Paul’s shipwreck and stay on Malta demonstrates God’s sovereignty over all circumstances. Despite the dire situation, God’s providence was evident in the safe arrival of everyone on the island and the warm reception they received. Modern Christians can take comfort in knowing that God is in control, even in the midst of life’s storms. Romans 8:28 reassures us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
The Power of Hospitality
The kindness shown by the Maltese people highlights the importance of hospitality and caring for strangers. This aligns with biblical teachings on loving our neighbors and showing hospitality. Hebrews 13:2 instructs, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” Christians today are encouraged to welcome and care for others, reflecting God’s love through their actions.
God’s Healing and Miracles
Paul’s healing ministry on Malta demonstrates God’s power to heal and perform miracles. It serves as a reminder that God can work through us to bring healing and hope to others. James 5:14-15 encourages believers to pray for the sick, trusting in God’s power to heal: “Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up.”
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Care and Provision
The story of Malta illustrates God’s care and provision for His people. Despite the shipwreck and the challenges that followed, God ensured that Paul and his companions were cared for. This demonstrates God’s loving nature and His commitment to providing for His children. Philippians 4:19 promises, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
God’s Use of Unexpected Situations
God often works through unexpected situations to fulfill His purposes. The shipwreck on Malta, which could have been a tragedy, became an opportunity for God to display His power and for Paul to continue his ministry. This encourages Christians to trust that God can use any situation, no matter how bleak, for His glory. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Connection to Jesus Christ
The Fulfillment of God’s Mission
Paul’s journey to Rome, including his time on Malta, was part of God’s plan for spreading the Gospel. Jesus commanded His followers to be His witnesses “in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Paul’s missionary journeys, including the events on Malta, were a fulfillment of this Great Commission.
The Example of Christ’s Compassion
Paul’s actions on Malta reflect the compassion and healing ministry of Jesus. By healing the sick and showing kindness, Paul exemplified the love of Christ. Christians are called to follow Jesus’ example by showing compassion and caring for others. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus teaches, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
Conclusion
Malta, as mentioned in Acts 28, serves as a significant location in the narrative of Paul’s ministry and the spread of early Christianity. The story of Paul’s shipwreck and his subsequent ministry on the island highlights God’s sovereignty, provision, and the power of hospitality and compassion. For modern Christians, Malta’s account provides valuable lessons on trusting God in adversity, showing kindness to strangers, and being instruments of God’s healing and love. Ultimately, Malta’s story points to the broader mission of the Gospel and the example of Jesus Christ, encouraging believers to live out their faith in tangible and compassionate ways.